Two Queanbeyan properties have tested positive for loose-fill asbestos this week as part of the Heads of Asbestos Coordination Authorities (HACA) independent investigation into loose-fill asbestos in NSW.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The properties are the fifth and sixth to be identified as part of the investigation’s free ceiling insulation testing program for homeowners across 26 NSW local government areas and bring the number of NSW properties confirmed to contain loose-fill asbestos insulation to 62. Another local property was identified as containing the asbestos in March.
A free independent technical assessment by a licensed asbestos assessor will now be offered to the property owners which will advise if living spaces are well sealed and the asbestos pathways appropriately controlled.
Testing of homes with loose-fill asbestos insulation has shown that exposure is likely to be very low if the asbestos is undisturbed and remains sealed off at all points where entry of asbestos into living areas can occur, including cornices, architraves, around vents, light fittings, manholes and the tops of cupboards.
HACA has engaged PricewaterhouseCoopers to conduct the independent investigation into loose-fill asbestos in NSW, and is providing free ceiling insulation testing for a 12 month period until August 2015 to identify the full extent of affected homes across the State.
Concerned residents in homes built before 1980 can register online or call Service NSW to see if they are eligible to have their property tested and assessed for the material by a licensed asbestos assessor. A list of licensed asbestos assessors is online at www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
• As of 9 April, 2015, 2,314 premises in the 26 local government areas had registered for the free sampling service.
• As of 9 April, 2015, 1,609 properties had been tested with 1,605 samples determined to not contain asbestos.
• Four other samples for properties in Berrigan Shire, Yass Valley, Queanbeyan City and Greater Hume local government areas have returned positive results.
• Fifty-seven properties were identified as containing loose fill asbestos following a search of historical records.
• A Queanbeyan property identified during the search of historical records was removed from the list after testing found no loose fill asbestos on the property.
• A breakdown test results by LGA is available on the Loose Fill Asbestos Insulation Taskforce website at http://loosefillasbestos.nsw.gov.au/
• Testing is ongoing with licensed asbestos assessors currently undertaking inspections of properties.
A website and hotline has been set up for the community register for the free sampling service or to obtain further information and advice. Go to http://loosefillasbestos.nsw.gov.au/ or call Service NSW on 13 77 88 for more details.
